Most Influential Filipino in the Gulf: Eric Elnar – Trailblazer

Commercial AttachePhilippine Trade and Investment Center I Philippine Consulate General

As the Department of Trade and Industry’s frontline mover in the Middle East and Africa Region, the Philippine Trade and Investment Center –Dubai is primarily tasked to promote exports of Philippine products to the region, as well as encourage investments to the Philippines from the Middle East and Africa. Leading this endeavor is Commercial Attache Eric C. Elnar. He is at the helm of promoting Philippine exports to the Middle East and Africa by strengthening the market access to key export sectors that were identified for their high potential for growth in the region: food products, franchising, furniture/furnishings, and health and wellness products. His office also promotes the Philippines as an investment destination by building business linkages with various entities to generate ventures into key sectors such as agribusiness and agriculture, energy, infrastructure projects, and tourism. They also make representations during negotiations for market access and provide commercial intelligence reports and policy recommendations. Of how they surmount the challenges of representing the Philippines in the creation of stronger economic ties, Commercial Attache Eric C. Elnar professes: “Despite the many obstacles we encounter as we strive to function effectively with the limitation of our resources, we also count the times we are heartened by words of encouragement and appreciation received from those we have assisted. The recognition that we are doing things right makes the journey less arduous. Being recognized by our compatriots and our work being appreciated by our clientele are the rewards that we look forward to the most.”